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1 min readFeb 16, 2026 10:44 PM IST
Pathum Nissanka became the first centurion of T20 World Cup 2026. (PHOTO: AP)
Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka became the first centurion of the T20 World Cup 2026 as he slammed a 52-ball 100 during the Group B clash against Australia at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Monday. His sensational knock helped Sri Lanka chase down a record 182-run total against Mitchell Marsh’s side, pushing Australia to the brink of elimination from the event.
Nissanka’s ton is also the first instance of a century scored against Australia in the T20 World Cups. His sparkling knock contained 10 fours and five sixes. He stitched a 97-run partnership with Kusal Mendis for the third wicket and a 79-run stand in just 34 deliveries with Pavan Rathnayake, helping Sri Lanka overhaul the target in just 18 overs.
Nissanka reached his fifty in 32 deliveries and accelerated to add the next 50 in just 20 balls. Sri Lanka have also qualified for the Super 8 with this win. Now, if Zimbabwe defeat Ireland in their next league fixture, Australia will be eliminated from this World Cup.
More to follow…
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